Martinez spoke about how her mother was a huge part of her life and she deserved justice.

She described Dennison as having a huge and caring heart and said she always provided a shoulder to cry on.

Deputy district attorney Michael Sanchez spoke about how Mud did not render aid to Dennison, echoing testimony from Dr. Lauren Decker of the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator during the trial.

She told the court Dennison could have possibly survived the knife wound if Mud has applied pressure to control her bleeding.

Mud's attorney Christian Hatfield told the court the incident was a tragedy fueled by alcohol and remorse.

Mud spoke briefly before Judge Dean sentenced him.

He briefly turned to the audience and stated he was sorry for his actions and that he had been drinking alcohol that night.

Joshua Kellogg covers crime, courts and social issues for The Daily Times. He can be reached at 505-564-4627 or via email at jkellogg@daily-times.com.